Cur
/kɜːr/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A mongrel or an inferior dog.
The stray dog was nothing but a cur, wandering the streets in search of food.
An ill-bred or surly person.
He was known as a cur, always barking at anyone who came near.
A cowardly or despicable person.
Don't be such a cur; stand up for what you believe in.
Etymology
Middle English 'curre', possibly from Old Norse 'kur', meaning 'to growl'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
dog's cur
A derogatory term for a worthless or cowardly person.
cur dog's attitude
Describes a person with undesirable or unpleasant characteristics.
Related Words
mongrel
A dog of mixed breed, especially one that is not purebred.
mut
An informal term for a dog, especially a mixed breed.
Slang Meanings
An insult for a mean or despicable person.
Don't be such a cur; stand up for yourself.
Used to describe someone who is cowardly.
He ran away instead of facing the challenge like a cur.